Jim and Cindy Shaw Scholarship established
The MSU Foundation has announced the establishment of the Jim and Cindy Shaw Scholarship Endowment.
The Shaws came to Kentucky in 2008 when Jim began serving as Morehead State University's vice president for university advancement and CEO of the MSU Foundation. Following more than 13 years of service, he retired on June 30, 2021.
During his tenure, MSU's Division of University Advancement was recognized at the state, regional and national level with numerous awards from professional organizations. Under his direction, "Much More Opportunity: The Campaign for Morehead State" raised nearly $47 million for campus facilities, scholarships, research and other University priorities. He recently led the Office of Alumni Relations and Development in the highly successful "Soar to New Heights Campaign," which raised over $27 million, primarily for student scholarships. Since his arrival at MSU in 2008, the MSU Foundation's total assets grew from $25 million to nearly $69 million.
Upon his retirement, the scholarship was established to assist MSU students in affording their education.
"Morehead State University is a special place. It has great faculty and staff. But it's the students that kept us here for over 13 years. They are a very special group of people," Jim said. "We are honored to be able to help those who are tenaciously pursuing degree completion."
The scholarship recipients will be juniors or seniors who have shown commitment, tenacity and determination to finish their degree but have experienced financial barriers.
Before coming to MSU, Jim spent 26 years in active duty in the U.S. Air Force and earned the rank of colonel. He then served as president and CEO of the Air Force Academy's Association of Graduates.
Cindy is a retired elementary teacher who spent nearly 40 years in the classroom. Throughout her career, she was recognized for her expertise in literacy development, specifically with children struggling in reading programs. Cindy not only taught full-time in four different states, but she also supported Jim in all his positions and family moves, hosted gatherings and dinners, and opened the Shaw home to cadets, students, alumni and board members.
“Education is my passion and I loved helping my students. This scholarship will allow those efforts to continue here at MSU," Cindy said. “I hope this helps fulfill the dreams of aspiring Eagles for years to come.”
During retirement, Jim and Cindy plan to spend time with their children and grandchildren. They plan to travel and spend time in both Kentucky and Colorado.
Students interested in applying to this scholarship should contact their academic advisor about the award. For more information on this scholarship, or to establish your own, contact MSU's Office of Alumni Relations and Development at 606-783-2033, email giving@moreheadstate.edu or visit alumni.moreheadstate.edu.
Photo, left to right: Jim Shaw, former CEO of the MSU Foundation, and his wife, Cindy Shaw, recently established the Jim and Cindy Shaw Scholarship Endowment.
